Acoustic Neuroma

Overview

An acoustic neuroma, also called a vestibular schwannoma, is a non-cancerous tumour that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve (cranial nerve VIII), which connects the inner ear to the brain. These tumours grow slowly and can affect hearing, balance, and facial movement if left untreated.

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury, we provide fast access to MRI imaging, ENT and neurology review, hearing assessments, and referrals to regional neurosurgical units when required — all coordinated in a private, calm setting.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

• Prevents permanent hearing loss and balance problems
• Allows regular monitoring or early surgical/radiosurgical referral if growth occurs
• Protects facial nerve function and reduces the risk of long-term complications
• Provides clarity and reassurance for patients with unexplained ear symptoms

Symptoms You Might Notice

Acoustic neuromas often grow slowly, and symptoms may be subtle at first:

• Gradual or sudden hearing loss, typically in one ear
• Persistent tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sound in the affected ear)
• Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Unsteadiness, particularly in dark or low-light environments
• Episodes of vertigo or dizziness
• Facial numbness or tingling (less common; may occur with larger tumours)
• Difficulty with speech or swallowing (rare and typically late-stage)

When To Seek Medical Advice

Call 01295 252 281 if you:

• Have one-sided hearing loss or tinnitus without an obvious cause
• Feel off-balance, dizzy, or have unexplained ear pressure
• Have had a scan suggesting an acoustic neuroma and need further support
• Want to explore private MRI imaging or second opinions on scan results

How We Diagnose And Monitor Acoustic Neuroma

1. Consultant ENT & Neurology Review – full symptom history, balance assessment and examination via our Neurology Service.
2. On-Site MRI Brain & Internal Auditory Canal (IAC) – performed in our Imaging Centre, specifically targeting the area around the auditory nerve.
3. Audiological Testing – pure tone audiometry, speech discrimination, and tympanometry with local audiology partners when needed.
4. Facial Nerve & Neurological Monitoring – particularly important for tumours near the brainstem or with facial symptoms.
5. Structured Surveillance – typically MRI scans every 6–12 months to monitor tumour size and growth if managed conservatively.
6. Referral Pathways – to specialist skull base or neurosurgical teams if intervention is needed (surgery or stereotactic radiosurgery).

Treatment And Ongoing Support

Treatment depends on the size of the tumour, its location, symptoms and patient preference:

Active Monitoring (Watch & Wait)

• Regular MRI imaging and hearing tests
• Appropriate for small, slow-growing tumours with minimal symptoms

Surgical Referral

• For large or symptomatic tumours, referral for microsurgical resection
• Post-op care coordinated through The New Foscote Hospital’s outpatient services

Stereotactic Radiosurgery

• Focused radiation (e.g. Gamma Knife) to control growth in selected cases
• Minimally invasive and usually requires no hospital stay

Supportive Therapy

• Balance and vestibular rehabilitation with our Physiotherapy Team (/departments/physiotherapy/)
• Psychological support if tinnitus or hearing loss is distressing
• Sleep and lifestyle advice through our Private GP Service (/private-gp/)

Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital?

• Consultant-led ENT, neurology and radiology services under one roof
• On-site MRI for rapid diagnosis
• Easy access to hearing tests and vestibular rehab
• Seamless referrals to national centres for specialist treatment
• Quiet, discreet outpatient setting with free on-site parking

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an acoustic neuroma cancerous?
No — it is a benign (non-cancerous) tumour. However, it can still cause significant symptoms if it grows unchecked.

Will I lose my hearing?
Not always. If caught early, hearing can sometimes be preserved. Monitoring or timely intervention helps reduce long-term impact.

How often do I need MRI scans?
Typically every 6–12 months, but your consultant will tailor this depending on tumour size, location and stability.

Protect Your Hearing, Balance And Nerve Health

Call 01295 252 281 or enquire online to arrange your acoustic neuroma consultation and personalised care plan.